1809. Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. the temperate person directs the sensitive appetites toward what is good and maintains a healthy discretion: “Do not follow your inclination and strength, walking according to the desires of your heart.”72 Temperance is often praised in the Old Testament: “Do not follow your base desires, but restrain your appetites.”73 In the New Testament it is called “moderation” or “sobriety.” We ought “to live sober, upright, and godly lives in this world.”74
To live well is nothing other than to love God with all one’s heart, with all one’s soul and with all one’s efforts; from this it comes about that love is kept whole and uncorrupted (through temperance). No misfortune can disturb it (and this is fortitude). It obeys only (God) (and this is justice), and is careful in discerning things, so as not to be surprised by deceit or trickery (and this is prudence).75
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
584. Why do we say “our” Father?
242. What is the function of the liturgical year?
261. Is Baptism necessary for salvation?
366. What place does human freedom have in the plan of salvation?
558. What are the sources of Christian prayer?
511. How should social and economic life be pursued?
166. Why is the Church called “Catholic”?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
Joseph’s story: How did God use Joseph’s story to fulfill his purposes?
What is the significance of David’s song of thanksgiving to God in 2 Samuel 22?
What is the Final Judgment according to Joel 3:14-16?
What is the relationship between truth and joy mentioned in 2 John 1:4?
